Hankook e-cube truck tyres set for local debut
The consumption-optimised 'e-cube' from Hankook has undergone independent testing at the DEKRA Automobile Test Centre in Germany, with the results showing a reduction in heavy vehicle fuel consumption by five percent, matching the performance of a premium-priced competitor in the Low Rolling Resistance (LRR) truck tyre segment.
The test involved driving three sets of tyres - a Hankook e-cube, regular Hankook truck tyre and an LRR tyre from another brand - for nine days, covering over 6,000 kilometres. The average fuel consumption of the test vehicle - a Scania G420 4x2 prime mover towing a fully-loaded Schmitz Cargobull semi-trailer - was 29.4 litres/100km when fitted with the Hankook e-cube set.
"As a result of the fuel consumption measurements at constant speed with three identical vehicle combinations each with an alternate set of tyres, it was ascertained that Hankook's e-cube models allow for fuel savings of up to five per cent," stated DEKRA testers in their concluding report.
"Thus, under the conditions tested, the e-cube model is to be equated with the premium competitor in average fuel consumption for the testing period."
The Hankook e-cube tyres used were AL10 (All Position Long Haul) on the steering axle and DL10 (Drive Axle Long Haul) on the drive axle, all in size 385/80R22. Additionally, TL10 were used (Trailer Long Haul) on the trailer in size 385/65R22.5. The standard Hankook truck tyres used for the comparison tyres were the AL02, DL02 and TH02.
Hankook say their e-cube tyres achieve this improved efficiency through the use of low-dampening compounds in the tread, which significantly reduces visco-elastic power loss - a major cause of efficiency loss through tyres.
In addition, Hankook's IMS (Innovative Mixing System) allows for a much more consistent distribution of soot particles and rubber molecules within the tyre compound. In combination with extended mixing periods at reduced temperatures, IMS results in a significant increase in the connection rate between the soot and rubber molecules.
The result is that e-cube tyres generate less heat, further improving tyre efficiency and lowering fuel consumption. Tread designs are customised to fit their respective axle positions. Hankook's patented design technology - Stiffness Control Contour Theory (SCCT) - also provides more stability and less movement by ensuring balanced pressure distribution within the tyres. The result is that, compared to its predecessor, e-cube enjoys considerably increased carcass durability and excellent re-treadability.
Hankook e-cube heavy vehicle tyres are set to be launched in a range of popular sizes in Australia this November.